MegaUpload vs. YouTube

To my knowledge, YouTube stores hundreds of terabytes of copyrighted material, including clips from movies and music videos. Since MegaUpload was shut down for storing copyrighted files on their servers, isn't it kind a similar to what's YouTube has been doing for years? Like MegaUpload too, the contents of YouTube are also uploaded by the users. Where's the difference could someone explain to me?

Youtube has a lot more money and legitimate user base. Although they do have violations, they have done a lot to prevent those violations. The charge is that megaupload knowingly profits from the criminal activity and doesn't do enough to prevent it.

Megaupload is going to be an easier case, but if they do get an easy conviction on them, then it's a strong possibility that other sites such as youtube are targeted next.

But not the entire DVD rips of movies, and if/when those are posted, they are promptly remove. The media companies don't mind clips here and there, because it's free advertising and fair use. Profiting from giving out entire DVD rips (what megaupload did) is completely different. Also Youtube responds and takes action for DCMA take downs, Megaupload did not.

Also, music videos are made for the express purpose of showcasing an artist and getting their music out there. your question is akin to "hurrr why can the radio play copyrighted material, but megaupload can't!" There are some very obvious and big differences between the two business platforms of Youtube and Megaupload. Trying to compare them is just reaching.